Airbag system in VW Cabrio failed (failure warning light came on) just after vehicle had passed warranty period. Volkswagen of America (elizabeth gwynn at corporate headquarters in rochester hills mi) stated through two subordinates that airbag systems are not warranted beyond any other items even though these systems are allegedly designed to last the life of the car. The statement (from Mr. Eric nevins) was that safety items are not worth any special or extended coverage and that safety is not the manufacturer's responsibility beyond a basic warranty. We have had our dealer do the needed repairs on this major safety item. This is not a dealer issue. The manufacturer (per gwynn and subordinates) has specifically stated that it takes no further responsibility for vehicle safety even a single mile after the basic warranty, which covers non-critical parts.

- Mclean, VA, USA